She smiles, lifting her head from the bed. “I should go and pack.”
I frown. “Why? It’s barely seven.”
“Yes, but we have to get back to New York.”
“What’s the hurry?” I shrug. “It’s just a few hours.” Then I frown. “Did you book an early flight out?”
She shakes her head. “No. I came on the train, and I intend to go back the same way. When is your flight?”
“Not until noon.” I rub my hand across my stubble. “You know what? I’ll call and cancel. I think a train ride with you will be more interesting. That is, if you want my company.”
She laughs softly. “That would be lovely.”
I give her a quick kiss. “We should order breakfast. I’m famished.”
Her eyes sparkle. “And who is to be blamed for that?”
Scrutinizing her flushed face and sexy body, I grin. “You, of course. For being the most beautiful, sexy, and passionate woman ever.”
A deep blush covers her face, and she reaches out to throw a pillow at me, but it falls to the ground.
I laugh. “Don’t start what you can’t finish, lady.”
She squeals and jumps off the bed when I reach for a pillow. Laughing, I chase her across the room.
* * *
With my handon the small of Giselle’s back, I step out of the elevator. When we arrived back at Penn Station, she was reluctant that I see her to her apartment door, but I wasn’t ready to let her go yet. I said I wanted to see her home safely, though I also wanted to find out where she lives. During the train ride, we were both careful not to mention the future. We have a lot of thinking to do. Spending a night and a morning with her wasn’t enough. I even forgot to call Ashlyn to wish her a good night’s sleep. As if that wasn’t bad enough, she called while I was having breakfast with Giselle before I realized I hadn’t called her back.
What a terrible father I am. And all because I was lost in this flaming-haired beauty with gorgeous green eyes and a great personality.
“Thanks for seeing me home.” Giselle turns to me, smiling.
I’m almost tempted to tell her to let me in for a cup of coffee, but I stop myself. I have to get home to my daughter and make up for my negligence.
“And thanks for a great time.”
I lift my hand to caress her cheek and lean in for a kiss just as the elevator door opens. Surprised, I drop my hand and step away from her just as a tall, broad-shouldered man comes out of it, holding a little girl’s hand.
“Aunt Gigi!” the little girl cries upon seeing Giselle.
“Maddie!” Giselle dips low to swing her into her arms and kiss her cheek.
A thick knot forms in my chest at the sight. It reminds me of Gwen and Ashlyn and how much they loved each other.
Giselle’s eyes are filled with warmth. “Did you miss me? I sure did.”
“Yes.”
“Where are you coming from?”
“The playground. It was fun.”
“Welcome back, Giselle,” the man says and then turns to me to give me a look filled with curiosity.
“Thanks, Gabe. This is Mi-Mr. Carrey. He’s a member of the Board of Trustees at the museum. He went with me to Washington for the meeting. Miles, this is my brother, Gabriel. And this is his daughter, Maddie.”
I shake hands with her brother while I smile at the little girl. “Hello, Maddie.”